SSI and IRMA have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen responsible sourcing of minerals used in solar energy supply chains. The partnership aims to cover the entire value chain, from mining to PV module production, as renewable energy deployment accelerates.
The collaboration aims to improve monitoring of the social and environmental impacts of solar energy technologies. As PV deployment expands, challenges related to raw material traceability, human rights and labor conditions in supply chains are becoming increasingly prominent.
The two organizations plan to focus on several areas, including improving the traceability of critical minerals used in solar energy technologies and supporting industry stakeholders through training and capacity building initiatives. They will also explore the gradual integration of mining assurance standards into solar supply chains, linking the requirements of the extractive sector more closely with those of the PV industry.
In addition to technical measures, the agreement also reflects the increasing regulatory burden and rising expectations of investors and consumers. The growing number of certification and reporting frameworks has highlighted the need for greater coordination to reduce duplication and clarify standards for industry participants.
SSI CEO Rachel Owens described the agreement as an important step toward improving transparency and sustainability standards in the solar energy sector, and emphasized the importance of broader engagement with stakeholders, including civil society and industry actors.
IRMA Executive Director Aimee Boulanger said the partnership represents an opportunity to better align energy transition goals with mining practices, noting that while solar energy supports a low-carbon future, it must also rely on more responsible extraction practices.
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